Second Beach Trail

The hike to Second Beach is relatively short. The trail itself is about 0.7 miles (1.1 km) one way, making the round trip approximately 1.4 miles (2.2 km). Most hikers complete the round trip in about 40-60 minutes, not including time spent exploring the beach.

The trail begins with a walk through a dense, moss-covered coastal forest on well-maintained paths, including some boardwalk sections. There's a slight initial incline, followed by a flatter stretch, before a descent to the beach. This descent involves switchbacks and a set of stairs. Be prepared for protruding tree roots and potentially muddy sections in the forest. Once on the beach, the terrain is sandy, and you'll need to navigate over large accumulations of driftwood to reach the open shoreline.

Yes, the trail is generally rated as easy and is suitable for a broad range of hikers, including children and those with limited hiking experience. While the overall distance is short, the descent to the beach and the subsequent climb back up the stairs can be strenuous, especially for those with knee issues. Despite this, it's a very rewarding hike for most.

The area offers opportunities to spot bald eagles soaring overhead, seals in the ocean, and various seabirds nesting on the sea stacks. During specific seasons (typically March/April and October), you might even observe whale migrations from the shore. At low tide, the tide pools reveal vibrant marine life like anemones and starfish.

Parking for the Second Beach Trail is available at a designated trailhead parking lot located off La Push Road, just outside the Quileute Indian Reservation. The lot can fill up quickly during peak season, so arriving early is recommended.

No, dogs are generally not permitted on the Second Beach Trail or on the beach itself, as it is located within Olympic National Park. This regulation helps protect the park's sensitive coastal ecosystem and wildlife. Service animals are an exception.

The Second Beach Trail is located within Olympic National Park. While there isn't a specific permit required for day hiking this trail, you will need to pay the Olympic National Park entrance fee. This fee provides access to the park for seven consecutive days. If you plan to backpack and camp overnight on the beach, a wilderness permit is required, along with a bear canister for food storage.

Second Beach is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. Summer (June-September) offers warmer, drier weather, but also larger crowds. Spring and Fall provide a quieter experience with lush forest and dramatic skies, though rain is more common. Winter can be wild and stormy, offering a rugged beauty. For tide pool exploration, always check tide charts for low tide, regardless of the season. Sunsets are spectacular any time of year, especially when the sun aligns with the sea stacks.

The trail leads to the stunning Second Beach, famous for its dramatic sea stacks, including the iconic Quillayute Needles and Crying Lady Rock. You'll also find at least one prominent natural arch to the north and another at Teahwhit Head to the south. The beach is characterized by vast amounts of driftwood and, at low tide, vibrant tide pools. The forest section itself offers lush, temperate rainforest scenery.

Yes, the route primarily follows the Second Beach Trail. However, sections of the Pacific Northwest Trail 03 Washington also overlap with this area, and you may encounter parts of the Privy Trail near the trailhead.

Yes, it's crucial to be aware of the tides. The headlands at either end of the beach can become impassable at high tide, potentially trapping you. Always check tide charts before exploring the beach and avoid attempting to round the headlands. Also, be mindful of large driftwood logs, which can be unstable.